Rural Leaders Network

The Rural Leaders Peer Network is a group within Smart Growth America’s Local Leaders Council that helps identify and support local elected officials in smaller communities who are committed to place-based economic development. It is an opportunity for leaders in rural areas to share questions and ideas specific to rural communities.

Reasons to join the network

Member directory
Find other members working on similar issues, in similar geographic areas, or on projects you’re curious about and contact them directly to ask questions or build relationships.

Rural toolkits
How do you address common rural issues with the most innovative strategies? Policy toolkits developed specifically for rural leaders cover the what, why, and how of policies that will help you direct public effort and investments to support place-based economic development goals.

Other online resources
Explore curated links to federal programs, studies, and reports that can help your rural community succeed.